News

Get Cash for Heat Pump Water Heater Upgrades - Support Your Clients in a Broken Water Heater Emergency

Get $1,500 for Installing a Heat Pump Water Heater MCE’s Emergency Water Heater Incentive provides contractors $1,500 to help cover the cost of installing and maintaining a temporary loaner water heater (gas or electric) as part of the customer’s permanent heat pump water heater (HPWH) installation.  As more households move toward environmentally-friendly options and the Bay Area passes new regulations to support California’s clean energy goals, your clients will need to start replacing gas appliances

Capitol Connection Q&A 1385

Capitol Connection Q&A for Contractors By Shauna Krause, President, Capitol Services, Inc. What’s in a name? Everything for a licensed contractor! While you can buy a contracting business it doesn’t guarantee your licensing gets a ‘pass’. First, let’s share a licensing basic before I clear up some confusion… Q: Hi Shauna, I have a quick question. If we want to bid on some work that is outside of our license scope, do we have to pre-obtain that classification prior to bid submission, or just have it

Better Workplaces Podcast Recommendations

As your health insurance brokerage firm, Venbrook is thrilled to bring you some thought-provoking recommendations related to today’s workplace from Adam Grant’s insightful podcast, WorkLife with Adam Grant. These episodes touch on critical themes that resonate deeply with our mission of fostering innovative, inclusive, and thriving workplaces. They serve as a guide to help us all navigate the complexities of modern work life with greater confidence and clarity. "The Science of Productive Conflict" -

Safety & Training Short: Fall Protection - Eliminating Falls

Learn to identify conditions and behaviors that cause falls:StairwaysCarrying objects that block the view of the stepsRunningFailure to use handrailWorking in areas cluttered by objectsInattentionLaddersUse of ladders that do not suit the jobUse of ladders that are in poor conditionImproper ladder placementImproper ladder useReaching/leaning too farUsing a step ladder that is too shortClick here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to download the complete training short in

A Carefully Constructed Succession Plan for Ghilotti Brothers Construction

Reprinted from Family Business Magazine by Beth Braverman, August 29, 2024Bay Area construction company Ghilotti Brothers has a 10-year timeline for transitioning from the third to the fourth generation. Like anyone else traveling through the San Francisco Bay area, Gino Ghilotti often spotted trucks bearing the name of his family's construction company, Ghilotti Brothers, on local roads. For Gino, a fourth-generation family member, the vehicles were a visible reminder of the responsibilities that come

Pacific Gas & Electric Wildfire Safety Tips - October

An alarming new study has shown that 58% of Californians lack a disaster kit, and 69% do not have any disaster plans.  California continues to be at risk from unpredictable wildfires. New growth of vegetation, grass, and plants due to the rain also poses a significant risk once these fuels become tinder dry, as they can promote rapid fire growth.   Evacuating from your home early can mean the difference of life and death. When a wildfire or other disaster strikes, be prepared to leave at a moment’s

Celebrating our Member Referral Partners - Thank You for Helping Us Build Our Community!

We would like to recognize and celebrate our wonderful REFERRAL PARTNERS!2024:Brittany Keyes, State Farm Insurance Agent, who referred Darcy Quinn, A an P Moving, Inc. (Special thanks to Brittany for pledging her bonus to our Workforce Development and Scholarship Fund!)David Kelley, California Modern, who referred Sally Scotto, SASi / SAS InteriorsAmy Wolff, CEARA Studio, Inc., who referred Naima Sweeting, Studio Serrette, Inc.Magda Loczi, Marin Sanitary Service, who referred LOCZIdesign, Inc.Misty D'Amore,

Safety & Training Short: Job Safety Analysis

The Job Safety Analysis (JSA) Process   JSAs are designed to enhance workers’ awareness of and adherence to safety controls. The goal is zero incidents. Obtaining that goal greatly helps the worker and the organization.   JSAs outline, for each position, the various hazards of the job and the needed controls and behaviors that will keep incidents from occurring. Use JSAs to teach workers about their jobs and about the importance of safety on the job.  JSA implementation: JSAs must be implemented in a

SolarCraft Energizes Schell-Vista Fire District with New Solar Installation

SolarCraft, a premier solar energy provider with over 40 years of experience serving Napa, Sonoma and Marin counties, has successfully completed a state-of-the-art solar power installation at the Schell-Vista Fire District in Sonoma, California.  The station now harnesses clean, renewable energy to reduce its carbon footprint and lower operational costs, saving close to $13,000 in annual utility bills.   Installed on the station’s standing seam roof, the newly installed solar photovoltaic system at

VADU IN THE NEWS: San Rafael couple’s ADU designed for all stages of life

By PJ Bremier | pj@pjbremier.com | IJ correspondent PUBLISHED: September 27, 2024 Marin Independent Journal   When Roberta Steiner and her husband, Allan Farovitch, purchased their new Cape Cod contemporary in San Rafael’s Lucas Valley Estates neighborhood 30 years ago, they left behind a 1930s Edwardian home in San Francisco. Their future was now about embracing the Marin lifestyle and the rearing of their two young boys, then ages 4 and 6. “We loved the new construction and the quiet, beautiful

Applied for a Permit in Marin? Take a 3 Minute Survey!

Can you Help Improve Permitting in Marin?Take ~ 3 minutes for a QUICK anonymous survey.  The Marin Builders Association is moving forward with Phase III of the Permit Improvement Program by asking for contractors, architects and homeowners who have applied for a permit in the County of Marin to complete a brief survey.   https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/AUop3Wz/comPIP3​This phase of the program will result in actionable recommendations to improve the overall customer experience. Please feel free

Safety & Training Short - Lead Awareness - Administrative Controls

Objective: To introduce common administrative controls, including policies and procedures for employee training, housekeeping, employee rotation, and personal hygiene as well as other methods of reducing employee exposures Because lead exposure is dangerous, your organization has administrative controls in place to help protect you. Refer to your organization’s written policies and procedures to see the specific administrative controls and follow them for your safety and the safety of

Marin Builders Association Welcomes Another FULL House at September Member Morning

On Thursday, September 19th, we welcomed over 100 guests at our Member Morning event!  It was a full and happy house and so wonderful to see all our members connecting and engaging.  Thank you to everyone who made the time to join us and special thanks to our coffee and donut sponsor and Cornerstone Partner, George Petersen Insurance Agency! Rick and Christine shared highlights about all the accomplishments of the year along with some previews of what's coming up in 2025. This 'power hour' of community,

Builders Association Political Action Committee (BAPAC) Makes Endorsements for 2024 November Election

San Rafael, CA - The Marin Builders Association Political Action Committee is proud to announce the November 2024 election endorsements.     Members of the BAPAC met in September and unanimously voted to support the following candidates and Marin County measures.   “The Marin Builders Association PAC is extremely proud to endorse these candidates and measures. Over the years MBA has worked with these individuals to create more development opportunities that drive economic vitality throughout the

Patty Garbarino Receives the John P. Moscone Award for Lifetime Achievement

North Bay’s local Patty Garbarino, President of Marin Sanitary Service, Marin Recycling and Marin Resource Recovery Center, Board Member of Sonoma County Resource Recovery, and Napa Recycling and Waste Services was honored to receive the John P. Moscone Award for “long-term exemplary commitment and dedicated service to the waste industry” by the Resource Recovery Coalition of California (RRCC) at their annual Convention. Long a leader in innovation of the waste industry, Ms. Garbarino began her career at

Consumer-Driven Health Plans: HSAs and HRAs

In today’s complex healthcare landscape, navigating the financial aspects of healthcare can be daunting for both employers and employees. It’s crucial to explore effective tools that can help manage these expenses while providing flexibility and control over healthcare decisions. Two tools are Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). These accounts offer significant financial benefits and play a vital role in supporting comprehensive healthcare strategy.Understanding HRAs

SolarCraft Powers Up Pine Ridge Vineyards with a New Solar Installation - Napa Valley Winery Teams Up with SolarCraft to Embrace Sustainability

SolarCraft, the leading solar energy provider in Napa, Sonoma, and Marin counties for over forty years, has successfully completed a 140 kW solar power installation at Pine Ridge Vineyard, situated in the prestigious Stag’s Leap district of Napa Valley.     The newly installed solar photovoltaic system at Pine Ridge Vineyard includes 280 high-efficiency panels, designed to produce 179,433 kWh of clean energy each year, saving close to $46,000 thousand in annual utility bills. This system will offset

Novato Launches New All-Agency Permit Advice Center

Novato Launches New All-Agency Permit Advice CenterIn-person consultations every 1st & 3rd Thursday starting September 5 The City of Novato is pleased to announce the launch of Novato Permit Connections, a new all-agency permit advice center aimed at streamlining the permit process for Novato’s homeowners and small businesses.  Novato Permit Connections is your go-to resource to ensure you have everything you need to submit your permit application. Submitting an accurate and complete application

Alten Construction Expands Ownership Team

Photo left to right: Bob Alten, Shannon Alten, Erik Andresen, Bobby Alten and Billy Alten RICHMOND, Calif. —Alten Construction, a full-service San Francisco Bay Area commercial construction general contractor, is pleased to announce the addition of three new partners to its ownership structure. Company founders and co-owners Bob Alten and Shannon Alten welcome sons Bobby Alten and Billy Alten to company ownership, as well as longtime employee and chief estimator Erik Andresen.    Bobby joined Alten

Cal/OSHA Bolsters Staff to Investigate the Most Egregious Violations, Referring them for Criminal Prosecution

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Cal/OSHA is strengthening its efforts to increase workplace safety by ramping up recruitment and hiring more investigator staff for its Bureau of Investigations. This important unit is responsible for investigations related to the most serious workplace injuries, including death and makes recommendations for criminal prosecutions.    Oakland—Today the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and its Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) announced that it has increased

Luau on the Links Golf Classic Shines

The links were filled with Marin Builders Association golfers at the 2024 Marin Builders Annual Golf Classic - Luau on the Links! This perennially sold out event, held on August 26th at the beautiful StoneTree Golf Club in Novato, hosted over 150 guests including players, volunteers, and sponsors.  Warm Northern California weather encouraged everyone to enjoy a day of golf, sportsmanship, new connections, and delicious food & refreshments.  A portion of the event proceeds benefit the Marin Builders

Marin Builders Association Members: Save on your Workers' Comp!

Capitol Connection Q&A 1375

Capitol Connection Q&A for Contractors Week of 7/29/2024 By Shauna Krause, President, Capitol Services, Inc. Our first inquiry is kind of like those irritating math problems from our school days, but in the end it’s a ‘zero sum’ answer! The last question, is a bunch of questions, every contractor should know and understand… Q: Our company purchased an existing contracting business about a year and a half ago. We receive the renewal application in the mail and noticed there is an Officer listed on

SolarCraft Boosts Solar Power at Napa's Paloma Vineyard - Paloma Vineyard Partners with SolarCraft to Boost Renewable Energy in Napa Valley

SolarCraft, a trusted solar energy provider for Napa, Sonoma, and Marin counties for forty years, has successfully completed a solar power installation at Paloma Vineyard, located on the renowned Silverado Trail in Napa Valley. Paloma has taken a significant step forward in its commitment to sustainability by partnering with SolarCraft to upgrade and expand its solar power system. The new installation, featuring state-of-the-art, high-efficiency solar panels, replaces an older system and dramatically

The Future of Home Insurance May Rely on Fire Smart Building

Earlier in July 2024, the New York Times published an article highlighting the collaboration of researchers at the Insurance Institute of Business & Home Safety (IBHS)  and insurance agencies, who are grappling with escalating losses due to the magnitude of wildfires across the West. The research emphasizes the role of a home's design features to withstand wildfire by focusing on key areas of home ignition risk: near-home landscaping, and the building’s materials and design often referred to as home

Marin Roofing Contractor Elected to Spray Foam Roofing Executive Board

Marin County,  July 17, 2024 Gary Harvey, CEO of Wedge Roofing, has been elected to the Executive Committee Board of the Spray Foam Roofing Alliance (SPFA), recognizing his expertise and leadership in the roofing industry.    The SPFA is the definitive voice and educational/technical resource for North America's Spray Foam Roofing and Insulation Industry.    Wedge Roofing, acclaimed for award-winning projects, is the first U.S. contractor to meet SPFA's rigorous accreditation standards for installing

Marin Economic Forum: Did You Know? Big companies in Marin are not only in tech

Big companies in Marin are not only in tech The San Francisco Business Times regularly releases “Top 100” lists regarding Bay Area companies. Recently, SFBT released the top 100 private companies according to revenues, which included 4 companies in Marin (Ghilotti Bros. Inc., W. Bradley Electric LLC, Precision General Commercial Contractors, and Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty). Three of these companies are in the category of “construction/engineering”, which was by far the largest category

Celebrating our 2024-25 Marin Home Resource Guide Ad Partners!

BUILD SMART - BUILD SAFE - BUILD LOCALInspiration I Expertise I ProfessionalsWe would like to thank and celebrate our 2024-25 Marin Home Resource Guide Ad Partners!  Listed in alpha order:Aaero Heating & SheetmetalAirport Home ApplianceARCpoint Labs of San RafaelBrittany Keyes, State Farm Insurance AgentBudget Blinds of Central Marin/South Marin/Petaluma/West Santa RosaCalifornia ModernCentral Valley EnvironmentalClough ConstructionCounty of Marin Community Development Agency Sustainability TeamCruise

W-2 vs.1099: What you Need to Know - How to Protect Your Business From Employee Classification

Employee misclassification can pose serious risks for companies that rely heavily on independent contractors. The right staffing plan can help you steer clear of potential misclassification issues and keep your business running smoothly. In our latest article, we offer a comprehensive guide outlining the differences between 1099 independent contractors and W-2 employees. Additionally, we provide our top recommendation for how to ensure a safe, reliable, and compliant workforce, so you can protect your

YES2YUM's Janine Aurichio on Business Success Tips Podcast with Paul Sanneman of CSS

Join two Marin Builders members as they delve into the world of stress-free projects with Mental Fitness Coach Janine Aurichio, who specializes in the construction industry. With over 20 years of experience, Janine shares invaluable insights on navigating challenges, improving mental resilience, and finding balance in the demanding world of contracting. Discover practical strategies to enhance your well-being, boost productivity, and foster a positive work environment. Tune in to gain essential tips for

New eBooks Available from Code Check

We are pleased to announce that Code Check Complete 3rd edition, Building 5th edition, Electrical 9th edition, and Plumbing/Mechanical 6th edition are now available in eBook format. The eBooks contain additional material not found in the print books, and have enhanced navigation tools designed to allow you to quickly find the information you need.    These most current Code Check books are based on the same model codes adopted by the state of California. To aid our California customers, we also have a

2024 California Contractors License Law & Reference Book

Significant changes made to streamline book  Sacramento, CA – The 2024 edition of the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) California Contractors License Law & Reference Book (Law Book) is now available. CSLB is pleased to introduce a streamlined law book that includes essential information for the California construction industry. The Law Book can be purchased directly from the publisher, or the online PDF version can be viewed or downloaded at no cost on the CSLB website. CSLB has reviewed and made

Civil Rights Department Publishes Updated ''California Law Prohibits Workplace Discrimination and Harassment'' Poster

Government Code section 12850 and related regulations require all California employers to display the “California Law Prohibits Workplace Discrimination and Harassment” poster in a conspicuous place where employees gather. The Civil Rights Department published an updated version of this poster that includes information about protections for employees taking bereavement leave or leave for reproductive loss. It also contains information about prohibitions against discrimination based on an applicant’s use of

2024 Marin County & City Building Permits

Click the links below to view a current list of permit reports published and provided by the County of Marin and the individual cities/towns including Corte Madera, Larkspur, Mill Valley, Novato, Ross, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito and Tiburon. If what you're looking for is not listed below, please don't hesitate to call our offices directly at 415.462.1220 or contact Gabriela Shea at mba@marinbuilders.com. Important Note: This list is updated monthly with the most current information we receive from

CSLB Reminds Licensees of New Laws Beginning January 1, 2024

Sacramento, CA – Heading into 2024, the Contractors State License Board wants to remind licensees of new laws taking effect in the new year.SB 630 (Dodd) This bill requires CSLB licensees and applicants to provide an email address, if available, when they obtain and renew licenses. The email addresses are not subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act. This bill also authorizes the Registrar to automatically reimpose license revocation when probationary conditions placed on a license are

Safety & Training Short - Winter Driving

Objective: To assure that employees are prepared for driving in winter conditions. A little extra preparation is needed to assure driver safety during winter months or other inclement weather conditions.Poor driving conditions is one of the biggest winter safety concerns. Due to shorter days, drivers are required to spend more time driving in the dark, and inclement weather can create slick roads and low visibility conditions.Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to

Overview of Spring 2024 Construction Classes in Marin

Construction Training Programs and Resources in Marin Marin Builders Association is committed to helping individuals find rewarding careers in the local construction industry.Click here for an overview of Spring classes developed to show the side-by-side comparison of courses offered in Marin. We strongly support high school seniors and young adults interested in the trades to sign up for North Bay Construction Corps. Please view ourMarin Construction Training website for more information.

New Community Development Agency Permit Ombudsperson

Meet Cristy Stanley! Cristy is the new Permit Ombudsperson at the Community Development Agency. She's is “open for business” and ready to assist contractors with the permit approval process at the County of Marin.VIEW HER INTRODUCTORY LETTER HERE

Safety & Training Short: Hand and Power Tools: Striking Tools

There are some general rules that apply to almost all hammers and other striking tools. Never use a striking tool for any purpose other than that for which it was intended. Never use a striking tool with a loose or damaged handle or with a mushroomed head or dull cutting edge. Conditions vary, but it can never hurt to wear goggles when using striking tools.Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to download the complete training short in Spanish Safety & Training Shorts

Liens & Completions 2023 - 2024

Click the links below to view a current list of Liens & Completions published and provided by the County of Marin. If what you're looking for is not listed below, please don't hesitate to call our offices directly at 415.462.1220 or contact Paula Krause

North Bay Construction Corps - Marin Class

North Bay Construction Corps - Class of Marin addresses the high demand for construction workers in our community. This program enables students to explore a variety of construction related careers and prepares young adults for internship positions with local Marin Builders Association firms at the end of each class cycle.  Made possible by the Mario Ghilotti Family Foundation, the Sausalito, and Mission San Rafael Rotary Clubs, the program helps students: Build Work-Ready SkillsAcquire Basic Tool Safety

Contractors with No Employees Face New Workers' Compensation Requirement

A new law will require almost all contractors in California to carry workers’ compensation coverage, regardless of if they have employees or not. According to the author of the bill, State Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) the new law was necessary due to the tendency of many small contractors to claim they have no employees, when in fact they regularly hire day laborers or undocumented workers. Since a firm with only an owner and no employees is not required to carry workers’ comp coverage, those workers would

Biggest Workers’ Compensation Mistakes by Contractors

In this crazy time of the COVID-19, it is not the time to cut corners to your detriment. While well intentioned contractors are always attempting to keep costs down to make a profit, they make some mistakes regarding workers’ compensation insurance.   Most common mistakes are:Certifying with the Contractors License Board that they do not need workers’ compensation insurance as they have no employees when they may have employees or use day laborers. . Not checking the sub-contractors to make sure they are

Lien Protection Checklist - SUBCONTRACTOR

Click here for Subcontractor Lien Protection Checklist to protect your Lien rights provided by the Marin Builders Association and Dan McLennon of Smith, Currie & Hancock, LLP.Reviewed and Updated February 2024

Lien Protection Checklist - GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Click here for General Contractors Lien Rights Protection Checklist to protect your Lien rights provided by the Marin Builders  Association and Board member Dan McLennon.Reviewed and Updated February 2024